An opera of unity

“Pearls symbolize unity and the ‘pearl fishers’ denotes a string of pearls that brings out the idea of unity in diversity,” says Patricia Panton, director of ‘The Pearl Fishers’, George Bizet’s opera which will be staged in Sri Lanka early next year. “Music unites people and this is precisely what The Pearl Fishers is doing,” she went on to explain. “This is a spiritual opera that explores ideas such as unity between different cultures, religions and beliefs. For instance, there are Buddhists, Muslims, Hindus and Jews, but they all pray to one God for success and safety in their endeavours. However, we cannot say for certain that Bizet actually had this in mind when composing the opera,” she said.

The performance will bring together musicians, singers and dancers from France, India and Sri Lanka.“This would be a good opportunity for the musicians to share their experiences and learn from each other. For most Sri Lankans this would be the first time they participate in a full length opera. Also there is a lot of acting and movement and they have to sing in French. So it would be a completely new experience for them,” Patricia explained.

Set amongst the fisher folk in Ceylon, The Pearl Fishers is a story of love, betrayal and rituals. A three act romantic saga, that welds passion, hatred, jealously, friendship and desire, its plot revolves around the tribal chief Zurga, his companion Nadir and the priestess Leila.

The Pearl Fishers will be performed at the BMICH on January 9 and 11, 2008. Tickets priced at Rs. 5000, 3500 and 1500 are now available at the Alliance Francaise, No. 11 Barnes Place, Colombo 7, Vibrations, No. 467 Union Place, Colombo 2 and The Gallery Cafe, No. 2 Alfred House Road, Colombo 3.